zoning

The City of St. Catharines is currently covered by 11 different zoning by-laws, each with its own wide range of zoning requirements. This section contains general details with respect to zoning.

Comprehensive Zoning By-law

Certain current general zoning area restrictions were established between  1959 and 1988. The variety of zones and zoning requirements makes it confusing for the public, Council and the development industry. In order to simplify the current system, the City has begun the process of updating the zoning by-laws and consolidating them into one new by-law.

Work is proceeding on the review of a number of technical issues. It is anticipated that preliminary meetings to review a draft by-law will be held in 2011. After the preliminary meetings, staff will review the comments and prepare a revised draft by-law that will formally be presented to City Council.  Before the by-law can be passed, a public meeting before Council is required. That meeting will be advertised on this website and in the local media.

Click here to view the composite zoning map for the entire City.

Zoning Inquiries

Zoning by-laws are approved by City Council to regulate the use of land and the character, location and use of buildings and structures therein.  Each parcel within the City  will have a zoning designation and corresponding regulations.  

Things that are regulated by zoning by-laws include:  location of buildings, decks, fences, air conditioners, accessory buildings, building height, lot sizes, coverage and parking requirements.

When sufficient information has been provided,  a Zoning Technician from the Transportation and Environmental Services Department will advise:

• How land may be used
• Where buildings and other structures can be located or "setback" from the property line
• The types of building structures that are permitted and how they are used

Written confirmation regarding the zoning of a property is subject to a fee.

Click here to view the current  zoning areas of the entire City.